Texas Gov. Rick Perry Says He Will Not Seek Reelection

(CNSNews.com) – Flanked by friends, family and staffers, Governor Rick Perry (R-Texas) announced Monday that he will not seek reelection to a fourth term.

“The time has come to pass the mantle of leadership.” Perry said at a press conference held at the largest Caterpillar equipment dealership in San Antonia, while the Texas legislature meets in special session in Austin to consider pro- life legislation banning abortions after the 20th week of pregnancy.

“In times of trials, I truly saw the best that Texas has to offer” Perry stated as he reminisced about his last 12-plus years serving as Texas’ chief executive.

During that time, Perry created more than 100,000 jobs, created the Texas Enterprise Fund, which has given $435 million to businesses across the state, ran for president and repeatedly backed pro-life bills.

The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis released new data last month showing that Texas’ real per capita gross domestic product increased 0.5 percent while California’s was revised downward 2.6 percent.

“Texas is the envy of the nation… and will remain a pro- life, pro- family and pro-freedom” even without him at the helm, Perry predicted.

His speech did not include any future plans for another run at the presidency, but Perry said he will continue to pray and seek God’s will as he makes any future political plans.